CitySquare CEO Larry James, Perkins Faculty to Headline Theological School for the Laity on March 3-5

DALLAS (SMU) – A keynote question-and-answer session with CitySquare CEO Larry James and a slate of diverse classes featuring Perkins School of Theology faculty members will headline the 2016 Perkins Theological School of the Laity, scheduled for March 3-5.

James has been involved with CitySquare – a faith-based, human and community development corporation that battles the causes and effects of poverty through service, advocacy and friendship – since 1994. An Elder in full connection with the North Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, James currently has a dual appointment with CitySquare and Highland Park United Methodist Church. He previously served for 14 years as senior minister at the Richardson East Church of Christ in Richardson, Texas.

James’ keynote presentation will be moderated by Peggy Wehmeyer, who for eight years was the religion correspondent for “ABC World News Tonight” – the first-such post for any network news outlet. Wehmeyer also has served as host and managing editor of “The World Vision Report” and was an anchor and reporter at WFAA-TV.

Rev. Dr. Ella McDonald (M.Div. ’08, D.Min. ’14) will preside over and deliver the opening worship service on Thursday, March 3. Dr. McDonald currently serves as the Presiding Elder of the Greater Dallas District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and is chairperson for the Minister’s Efficiency Committee of the North Texas Annual Conference.

Six members of the Perkins School of Theology faculty and a doctoral candidate will conduct courses during the event:

Additionally, a dinner at 5:30 p.m. Friday, March 4 in the Great Hall of Elizabeth Perkins Prothro Hall will recognize the recipients of the Woodrow B. Seals Laity and the Person of Faith awards. A separate announcement detailing these winners will follow.

More registration information for Perkins Theological School of the Laity is available at http://bit.ly/1PhvVVW. Advanced discounted registration ends Friday, Feb. 26, and first-time attendees can receive a $25 discount by using the code NEW when registering. Also, continuing-education credits will be provided for a $25 fee.